Fort Myers-based Diversified Yacht Services Inc. has signed on as the title sponsor for the 2009 National and World Championships of the 2.4mR class of sailboats.

Fort Myers will play host to the three-day National Championships competition scheduled for Oct. 26-28 with the seven-day World Championships to follow Oct. 31 to Nov. 6. The world-class competition, hosted by the Edison Sailing Center, will take place in the Caloosahatchee River and will draw an experienced fleet of sailors including Paralympic medallists and America’s Cup competitors.

“To secure the National Championships before the Worlds and to generate a title sponsor are major steps to ensuring Fort Myers shines on the world stage,” said Steve Olive, head coach of the Edison Sailing Center. “With the nationals preceding the worlds, the top competitors in the world are more likely to compete in both, and two regattas will significantly impact our local economy.”

Between 300 and 500 travelers are expected to visit Fort Myers for the two events, which will attract as many as 100 elite competitors from as many as 17 nations.

Eileen Deutsch, service manager for Diversified Yacht Services Inc., said the company was eager to support such an important community event.

“We are proud to support the Edison Sailing Center and the sailing community, while at the same time encouraging tourism and bolstering our local business community,” Deutsch said. “These events will generate significant revenue for hotels, restaurants and retail businesses, and we hope our sponsorship ensures the competitors enjoy all our community has to offer.”